As part of the University of Michigan 2018 “Speech and Inclusion: Recognizing Conflict and Building Tools for Engagement” series, the National Center for Institutional Diversity (NCID) partnered with Academic Innovation (AI) to organize a series of teach-outs on free speech. Teach-outs are short learning experiences, each focused on a specific current issue, that enable a wide variety of people to join the University of Michigan’s campus community in exploring a timely topic. Click through on each one to view the syllabus and enroll the next time the course is available.

Free Speech on Campus

Free speech on college campuses has gained national attention because of the varying views held by individuals to protect or ban speech that is offensive, discriminatory, and hateful, and which has implications for an inclusive learning environment. This Teach-Out will prompt participants to think critically about the role free speech plays on university campuses and how this discourse shapes the broader narrative about free speech protection across the United States. myumi.ch/6nVx3.

Freedom of the Press: What's At Stake?

A free press is essential for a healthy, vibrant, and democratic society. Yet public trust in journalism has hit historic lows in recent years and journalists are being openly questioned. This Teach-Out will prompt participants to think critically about the roles and responsibilities of journalists in a free society and the implications of a restricted and diminished press. myumi.ch/6nVx3.

Free Speech in Sports

There is a growing debate on what constitutes free speech and what is protected speech under the First Amendment, particularly within the context of sports and athletics. This Teach-Out will prompt participants to think critically about the institution of sport, and how sport is a contested terrain in contemporary society with respect to free speech. myumi.ch/6nVx3.